Community Australia and New Zealand Ambassadors Lead 2025 Anzac Day Dawn Service at Hellfire Pass

[Georgealbert]

 

Pictures courtesy of Khaosod.

 

The Ambassadors of Australia and New Zealand jointly led a solemn Anzac Day Dawn Service at Hellfire Pass in Kanchanaburi province on the morning of 25 April, marking a poignant tribute to the soldiers who suffered and perished during the construction of the Thai-Burma Railway in the Second World War.

 

The ceremony, attended by diplomats, military personnel, descendants of veterans, and members of the public, paid homage to the courage, endurance, and mateship of Australian and New Zealand servicemen and women.

 

In a statement released by the Australian Embassy, officials highlighted the significance of Hellfire Pass as a site of deep historical and emotional importance for both nations.

 

This year marks the 110th anniversary of the Australian and New Zealand Army Corps (ANZAC) landing at Gallipoli.

 

Australian Ambassador to Thailand Dr Angela Macdonald PSM reflected on the event’s significance.

 

“We stand together here at Hellfire Pass to pay tribute to all who those who served, and continue to serve our countries,” Ambassador Macdonald said. “Their great courage, service and self-sacrifice in war, humanitarian and peace operations will be remembered in history and our hearts. Lest we forget.”

Australian Chief of the Defence Force Admiral David Johnston AC RAN recognised the bravery and sacrifices made by generations of Australians. 
 

“Today we honour the memory of the more than 103,000 Australians who have given their life in our country’s name,” he said. “Their enduring Anzac spirit remains strong with us, whether we are at home or overseas.”

 

New Zealand Ambassador to Thailand Mr Jonathan Kings said more than 30,000 New Zealand military personnel have been killed in wars and conflicts since 1915.

 

“Anzac Day is a time for us to pause and reflect, as we are eternally grateful to those who gave so much for our freedom,” Ambassador Kings said.“Ka maumahara tonu tātou ki a rātou. We will remember them.”

 

At the Dawn Service, Their Excellencies and other dignitaries laid wreaths to honour the fallen, followed by the playing of the Last Post and a minute of silence.

 

 

  Adapted by Asean Now from Khoasod 2025-04-26.

 

 

 

 

 

[Tropicalevo]

A big thank you to all who serve and have served to protect our lives and our way of living.

These memorials for those that have passed on are important.

Because of their sacrifices, we are all here today. 

[Gsxrnz]

Ask a 25 year old Kiwi or Aussie about the two Great Wars and they will know less than I do about the Crimean War of 1853 - and that's not much.